Interventions to enhance the experience of family members and companions during surgical waiting: A systematic review

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.23938/ASSN.1094

Keywords:

Accompanying Family Members, Perioperative Period, Anxiety, Nursing Intervention, Systematic Review

Abstract

Background. Family members and companions play a crucial role in supporting a patient’s postoperative recovery, fostering a positive attitude toward the hospital, and promoting overall well-being. This study aimed to identify effective interventions designed to enhance the experience of family members and companions during surgical waiting periods.

Methods. A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. A comprehensive search was performed in the PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Cochrane databases for articles published in Spanish or English between January 2013 and December 2023. Data extracted from the studies included: country of origin, publication year, study design, sample size, study objective, characteristics of the interventions, tools used to measure effectiveness, and key findings. Methodological quality was assessed using Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tools.

Results. Eight studies were included, evealingr three main types of interventions: structured communication, telematic communication, and continuous communication. These interventions were heterogeneous in terms of key components, including provider, timing, location, format, frequency, and duration. Not all studies provided detailed information on these elements. Telematic communication, particularly explanatory videos lasting at least 20 minutes in the waiting room, was found to be effective in significantly reducing family anxiety, as measured by the STAI scale.

Conclusions. The results highlight the limited number of interventions designed to improve the experience of families and companions during surgical waiting periods. There is a clear need for standardized interventions and outcome measurement tools to optimize emotional support, ultimately improving the family experience and well-being in this context.

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Author Biographies

María José Moreno , Clínica Universidad de Navarra. Pamplona. España

Clínica Universidad de Navarra. Pamplona. España https://ror.org/03phm3r45

Elena Martín-Gómez, Clínica Universidad de Navarra. Pamplona. España

Clínica Universidad de Navarra. Pamplona. España https://ror.org/03phm3r45

Mónica Vázquez-Calatayud, Clínica Universidad de Navarra. Pamplona. España

Clínica Universidad de Navarra. Pamplona. España https://ror.org/03phm3r45

Universidad de Navarra. Grupo de investigación Innovación para un Cuidado Centrado en la Persona (ICCP-UNAV). Pamplona. España  https://ror.org/02rxc7m23

Universidad de Navarra. Facultad de Enfermería. Pamplona. España https://ror.org/02rxc7m23

Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdisNA). Pamplona. España https://ror.org/023d5h353

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Published

2025-02-26

How to Cite

1.
Moreno MJ, Martín-Gómez E, Vázquez-Calatayud M. Interventions to enhance the experience of family members and companions during surgical waiting: A systematic review. An Sist Sanit Navar [Internet]. 2025 Feb. 26 [cited 2025 Dec. 7];48(1):e1094. Available from: https://recyt.fecyt.es/index.php/ASSN/article/view/108648

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Review article

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